Understanding Autism...It Takes Time
I'm headed back to Ohio!
Welcome to my little corner of the internet best known as Finding Cooper’s Voice. I named this blog over 13 years ago, back before my son was diagnosed with autism. When I picked the name, I thought my job was to help him find his voice. What I didn’t realize was he would actually help me find mine. Thank you for being here.
As a free subscriber, you can expect to receive one heartfelt essay right here and in your inbox each week. If you want to read more and connect with a like-minded community, you may want to consider becoming a paid subscriber.
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Dear Readers,
I used to think a lot of things about my son’s autism.
Back before I really understood.
Back when it was just a word on a piece of paper slid across the table to us. Slow like. As if the contents held the secrets to our future.
I thought it was something that was given to him. Placed upon his 3-year-old shoulders, weighing him down.
I thought it was something we could fix. Or change.
I thought there was a part of him that was not autistic. One that we just had to find.
I was wrong about so many things. I’m going to say it again for the cheap seats in the back.
I was wrong. I didn’t understand. I didn’t know. I was scared. And worried. Young. Fearful. So many things.
As he grew into himself, and I grew into autism, I opened my eyes and ears and heart and learned to see and listen and feel.
It was a painful evolution. One that I am incredibly thankful for now.
I’ll tell you a few more things too.
I used to worry that my son was lonely. And I wondered if he was happy.
Because I didn’t know. And at my core as a mom, all I have ever wanted and ever will want, is for my beautiful, smart, funny, amazing boy to be loved and treasured and happy just as he is.
He is fifteen years old now.
His life is not complex or full of birthday party invites or sporting events.
It’s simpler. It’s his own.
Today, he watched his old black and white train movies. He went for a walk with our family. He ate breakfast and lunch. He studied his books and magazines and lined up his DVD’s. He took a nap.
And I can say with certainty that he is happy. He is actually probably the happiest person that I know.
And lonely? Not a chance.
He has his characters in his shows. His brothers. Neighborhood kids who shout his name when he is walking. Some who even take him into their houses for paper. And a mom and dad who absolutely adore him.
I don’t worry so much anymore. Now that I understand.
It just took me some time to get here. I’m thankful he was patient with me.
Love,
Kate
Upcoming Events
I’m headed back to Ohio!
TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE!
Pathways for Inclusion and Special Connections is proud to present: Pathways to Connection - one-day mini retreat.
Caregivers, support professionals, educators, therapists, and providers — this day was created with YOU in mind.
Join us for an event focused on encouragement, practical resources, meaningful connection, and refueling the people who spend their lives caring for others.
Saturday, August 22
JeffCo Event Center | Steubenville, OH
Registration begins at 8:30 AM
Your registration includes:
Two inspiring keynote sessions
Lunch
Local vendors & resource tables
Community and connection with others who truly understand the journey
Carrie Cariello wrote a new book! Take a watch. And please give me a subscribe when you visit my YouTube page. It’s nearly impossible to reach people over there and I’d love to help more!
